Stakeholders demand action against foreign-led illegal mining in Ahafo Region
Stakeholders in the Ahafo Region have expressed disappointment in law enforcement agencies and state regulatory bodies over their continued failure to curb rampant illegal mining activities, particularly those driven by foreign nationals.
Community leaders and stakeholders in Ghana's Ahafo Region have expressed frustration with authorities' inability to stop illegal mining, especially operations conducted by foreign entities. This issue was highlighted at a recent Regional Multi-Stakeholder Mining Forum held in Goaso. The Nature and Development Foundation, alongside the Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Authority, and Minerals Commission, organized the forum.
Participants, including locals, officials, and non-governmental organizations, reported that six foreign-owned companies, primarily run by Chinese nationals, are conducting illegal mining within the region. Notably, only one of these companies holds a legitimate permit. Such activities breach Ghanaian law, as outlined in the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006 and subsequent amendments.
These laws explicitly restrict small-scale mining to Ghanaian citizens, making foreign participation a serious criminal act. Moreover, operating without proper Environmental Impact Assessments contravenes the Environmental Protection Agency Act of 1994. Additionally, the direct discharge of hazardous waste into public water bodies violates the Water Resources Commission Act of 1996.
These illegal mining activities not only jeopardize environmental health but also contravene international sustainability goals. The destruction of natural habitats impacts SDG 3, 6, 12, 13, and 15, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action against this thriving illicit industry.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
